The vows then take place. Everyone stands, and the minister says to the groom: “Will you take this woman to be your lawful wedded wife, to live together according to the Law of God in the holy estate of marriage? Will you love her, honour and keep her, and forsaking all others be faithful to her so long as you both live?” The groom answers “I will”, then the bride is asked the same question.
The man then says to the woman, “I [name], do take thee [name] to be my lawful wedded wife, to have and to hold from this day forward, for better of for worse, for richer and poorer, in sickness and in health, to love and to cherish, till death do us part, according to God’s holy law, and to this I pledge myself.” The woman then makes her vows to the man.
The rings are exchanged in the “giving of the rings” because they symbolise the promise of unending love and the exclusive commitment each partner is making.
In the pronouncement of the marriage, the minister states that the couple are now married. A hymn may be sung and prayers may be said for the couple. The service ends with the blessing, said by the minister.
The registrar is then signed by the couple and witnesses and the marriage certificate is issued.
2. What importance do the wedding vows hold for Christians?
The vows exchanged in a wedding ceremony should have a large impact on the married lives of a Christian couple.
In the wedding service, the bride and groom agree to be faithful to their spouse for as long as they both live, forsaking all others. Married couples should therefore be loyal to each other, thus obeying the 7th commandment. If they had an affair, their trust would be broken and could split families apart, and would dishonour the sanctity of marriage.
Vows also state “will you love her and honour her?” This highlights how Christian couples should treat each other with care and respect. They should adopt a loving attitude towards each other, displaying Christian qualities all the time. This will help to create a happy, long-lasting relationship.
According to the vows, their promises should last for as long as they both live. This highlights that marriage is permanent. Each couple should therefore try to solve any problems which arise in their relationship. Marriages are more likely to last longer if they have trust and respect, displaying through faithfulness and attitudes.
Each person also states, “For better for worse, for richer and poorer, in sickness and in health, to love and to cherish, till death do us part, according to God’s holy law; and to this I pledge myself”. This shows how each person should always be loving towards their spouse, no matter what the circumstances are. Christian couples can also practice their faith with each other, bringing them closer together, such as praying and discussing the Bible.
